Updated on November 26, 2024 by Angelika

The traces of Nuremberg's more than 1,000 years of history make every visit to this city an unforgettable experience. Characterized by its medieval past, its role as the city of the Nazi party rallies during the Nazi era and an impressive reconstruction effort after the Second World War, Nuremberg today is a vibrant city that delights visitors from all over the world with its cultural wealth, old town charm and unique atmosphere.

From the historic Imperial Castle and the Gothic splendor of the Lorenz and Sebaldus churches to modern highlights such as the Neues Museum - Nuremberg has plenty to offer for every taste. At the same time, the city attracts visitors with culinary classics such as Nuremberg gingerbread and grilled sausages, which you can enjoy on almost every corner.

Here I present my top 16 Nuremberg sights and give you important tips for your visit to one of Germany's most fascinating cities. With my suggestion for a tour, you can discover the highlights of the city center in one day. 

Some City History

Nuremberg was first mentioned in documents in 1050 and experienced its first heyday as an imperial city of the Holy Roman Empire from 1219. In the "Golden Bull" of 1356, Emperor Charles IV had determined that every newly elected emperor must hold his first Imperial Diet in Nuremberg. Besides Frankfurt as the city of the king's choice and Aachen as the city of the royal coronation Nuremberg was thus a center of power in the empire. The Thirty Years' War led to an estrangement between the Protestant city and the Catholic emperors. In 1663, the Imperial Diet was moved to Regensburg.

Now you can imagine why Adolf Hitler chose Nuremberg as the city for his Reich Party Rallies he saw himself as the successor to the emperors of the Reich. In the Reichstag of 1935, the Nuremberg Laws - the inhuman racial laws of the Third Reich, which marked the beginning of the persecution of the Jews - were passed. Cynically, the NSDAP called this Reich Party Congress the "Reich Party Congress of Freedom". After the end of the war, the main war criminals of the Nazi terror regime stood trial in Nuremberg in the "Nuremberg Trials" before the first international military tribunal in history.

Nuremberg's strong symbolic power for the Nazis was one of the main reasons for the heavy air raids by the Allies. Another reason was that Nuremberg was an important production site for armaments. After Würzburg, Nuremberg was the second most destroyed city in Bavaria during the Second World War. The old town was completely in ruins.

In 1947, a decision was made in favor of a simplified reconstruction of the historic old town. Despite considerable damage, some historic buildings were preserved (including the Imperial Castle, Town Hall, Frauenkirche, St. Sebald and St. Lorenz). Most of the reconstruction work had already been completed by 1955. To this day, aerial bombs continue to be found during construction work in the city.

Nuremberg Highlights - Tour in One Day (with Map)

If you only have one dayto explore Nuremberg, you can the most important highlights of the city center with this city tour that I have put together for you. This is a tight program that leaves you hardly any time for museum visits or interior tours. If you are interested in history, art and culture, I recommend a stay of several days in Nuremberg, where you are guaranteed not to get bored.

If you want to visit the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, or the Memorium Nuremberg Trials you should plan an extra day. The same applies if you want to visit the Germanic National Museum want to visit extensively.

Start your tour coming from the station at Handwerkerhofwhere you can get an impression of medieval Nuremberg, although the square was only established in 1971, the year of Dürer.

You can download the route for your city tour to your cell phone. How to do that, I explain in my detailed blog post Plan Route with Google Maps. Note: For a better overview, you can hide individual layers of the map and, for example, only display the route for the tour.

The Most Important Sights of Nuremberg

1. Imperial Castle

The Imperial Castle, which towers over the city on a sandstone rock, is Nuremberg's most famous landmark and the heart of the Old Town. The Imperial Castle was once one of the most important residences of the Roman-German emperors, who held numerous Reichstage here between the 11th and 16th centuries. The well-preserved fortress is a fascinating testimony to medieval architecture and power.

Particularly impressive is the free-standing Sinwell Tower from the 13th century, which served as a keep. If you dare to make the climb, you can enjoy a unique panoramic view of Nuremberg and the surrounding Franconian countryside from the top. The Deep Well (Tiefer Brunnen), which served as a water supply back then, is an exciting attraction and provides an insight into the historical art of engineering. The tower was one of the few buildings in the castle to survive the air raids of the Second World War and today houses an exhibition on the destruction of the town and castle between 1940 and 1945.

For those interested in culture and history, the castle also offers the permanent exhibition "Emperor - Empire - City" about the life and rule of the emperors in the Middle Ages. Here you can find out how political and social life functioned in this era and what significance Nuremberg had as a city.

A visit to the Imperial Castle is like a journey back in time to the Middle Ages - it is a reminder that Nuremberg was not only an important trading city, but also a center of power. Take your time to stroll through the winding castle gardens, explore the fortifications and enjoy the different perspectives of the city!

2. Former Nazi Party Rally Grounds

Hardly anywhere else in Germany are the legacies of the Nazi dictatorship as visible as in Nuremberg. This is where the Nuremberg Laws were passed, where the propaganda paper "Der Stürmer" was published, where the Nazi Party conferences were held and where the remaining representatives of the regime were finally brought to justice in the Nuremberg Trials.

The former Nazi Party Rally Grounds, where the Nazi Party's mass events were held, is now Nuremberg's largest leisure area with lakes, parks, a soccer stadium, ice hockey arena and car racing track. The Nuremberg Folk Festival takes place twice a year against the backdrop of Hitler's never-completed monumental Congress Hall.

For a long time, no one really knew what to do with these ruins of National Socialist megalomania. The first impulse after the war was to destroy them, and parts of the site were indeed blown up. Over time, the culture of remembrance prevailed in the German public against the desire to forget.

It was not until the mid-1980s that the first information services were available, and the Documentation Center opened in 2001. On the occasion of the 2006 Football World Cup, the city of Nuremberg installed an information system on the former Nazi Party Rally Grounds. Texts, pictures and plans inform visitors to the 380-hectare site at 23 locations about the history of the National Socialists' propaganda stagings.

I took part in a first-class guided tour organized by the Geschichte für Alle e. V. (History for All) which is also offered in English. I can highly recommend this tour to anyone who is interested in German history. The tour led from the Documentation Center to the inner courtyard of the Congress Hall, across Große Straße (today a parking lot for the Oktoberfest and other major events) to the German Stadium with the Silbersee, then along the Dutzendteich to Zeppelinfeld with the dilapidated stone grandstand, the former "Führer's Pulpit". Finally, we went to the so-called "Golden Hall" inside the grandstand, which was still accessible as part of a guided tour in 2022, but is currently closed due to renovation work (as of 2024).

The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds is currently being renovated and will reopen at the end of 2025 (as of December 2024). However, there is an interim exhibition on the history of the site.

3. Albrecht Dürer House and Tiergärtnertorplatz

Nuremberg's most famous son, the painter, graphic artist and engraver Albrecht Dürer, lived and worked in this half-timbered house with a sandstone base in the Old Town near the Imperial Castle from 1509 until his death in 1528. The house dates back to the 15th century and is one of the few buildings to have survived the Second World War almost unscathed. It is the only surviving artist's house from the 16th century in Northern Europe. The house not only gives an authentic impression of life in the Renaissance, but also honors Dürer's extraordinary artistic legacy.

The exhibition in the Dürer House takes you through the artist's living and working spaces and shows you how he and his family lived at the time. The replica of his workshop is particularly exciting, where you can learn more about the techniques of copperplate engraving and woodcutting. Some of his important works are also on display - including reproductions of masterpieces such as "Praying Hands" and "Rhinocerus".

A special experience is provided by "Agnes Dürer", Dürer's wife played by an actress, who tells of her life with the artist in regular guided tours - a charming journey through time! The Albrecht Dürer House is more than just a museum - it is a place where the artist's work can be experienced.

From Dürer's former living quarters, you have a wonderful view of the Imperial Castle and the Tiergärtnertorplatz, one of the most beautiful squares in Nuremberg's city center. The Tiergärtnertor is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike. There are plenty of restaurants, cafés and beer gardens here. The beautiful location invites you to linger. Many people buy a drink and simply sit down on the cobblestones.

4. Germanic National Museum (Germanisches Nationalmuseum) and Way of Human Rights

With over 1.3 million objects the museum, which was founded in 1852, houses the largest collection of art and cultural history in the German-speaking world. Here you can take a fascinating journey through the centuries - from prehistory to the present day. Particularly impressive are the medieval exhibits, such as the magnificent altars, as well as Renaissance masterpieces, including original works by Albrecht Dürer, and sculptures by Veit Stoß and Tilman Riemenschneider. A highlight: the famous Behaim globe from 1492, the oldest surviving globe in the world - still without the American double continent.

The museum not only impresses with its collection, but also with its architecture, which skillfully combines the historic buildings of the former Carthusian monastery with modern additions. In addition to paintings, sculptures and arts and crafts, there are also exciting special exhibitions that regularly open up new perspectives on history and culture.

5. Main Market (Hauptmarkt) with Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche) and Schöner Brunnen

A food market is held on Nuremberg's main market every weekday. During the Christmas season, the stalls of the world-famous Christmas market are set up here.

Until the Second World War, the Hauptmarkt was one of Nuremberg's architectural gems. After the war, the square was rebuilt in a very simplified form. The only historical buildings are the Frauenkirche church and the Schöne Brunnen fountain.

The Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche), one of the finest examples of Gothic sacred architecture in Nuremberg, was built under Emperor Charles IV between 1352 and 1358 according to plans by the Prague cathedral master builder Peter Parler.  It was built on the site of the former synagogue, which had been destroyed during the progrom of 1349. Particularly impressive is the richly decorated west façade with the famous "Männleinlaufen", which commemorates the proclamation of the Golden Bull of 1356. Every day at 12 noon, the seven electors walk around Charles IV while the musicians move their instruments.

The interior of the Frauenkirche is also absolutely worth seeing. The filigree vaults and finely crafted furnishings impress at first glance. The highlight is the so-called Tucher altar, a magnificent winged altar from the 15th century, which is a masterpiece of late Gothic art with its detailed paintings.

The Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain) dates back to the 14th century and is richly decorated with biblical and courtly figures. However, the building on the Hauptmarkt is a copy. The few original remains can be found in the Germanic National Museum.

6. Memorium Nuremberg Trials

The International Military Tribunal in Nuremberg was the first international criminal trial and remains the most important to this day. The "trial of the century" was convened after the collapse of the Third Reich, the destruction of the Second World War and the horror of the unprecedented atrocities committed by the Nazi regime. The Nuremberg trial was of fundamental importance for the development of international criminal law and was the model for the establishment of today's International Criminal Court in The Hague.

The trial opened on November 20, 1945, and after 403 sessions lasting 216 days, the tribunal announced its verdict on October 1, 1946. Twelve defendants were sentenced to death by hanging. Seven defendants received long or life sentences. Three defendants were acquitted. Göring had committed suicide with a cyanide capsule less than three hours before the sentence was carried out; Bormann was sentenced in absentia.

Since November 21, 2022, you have been able to visit the Nuremberg Palace of Justice. Media installation "Time travel room 600" experience. This virtual journey through time takes you back to the trial days between November 20, 1945 and October 1, 1946 at the historical site of the Nuremberg Trials. The courtroom was greatly altered by reconstruction measures in the 1960s and 1970s. Now, original film footage and a digital reconstruction of the courtroom have been used to create a virtual illusion in which we feel like observers of the trial of leading representatives of the Nazi regime before the International Military Tribunal. Visitors can see how the defendants, judges, lawyers and witnesses were positioned in the room at the time. Original historical footage, film sequences and trial documents are shown, providing a deep insight into the course of the proceedings. I found this 15-minute video installation both fascinating and disturbing.

The "Time Travel Room 600" makes the history of the location tangible and at the same time shows the significance of the Nuremberg Trials for the development of human rights and international criminal law. For me, this installation was an emotional highlight that made the Memorium an unforgettable experience.

Outside the courtroom, a permanent exhibition in several exhibition rooms provides information about the history, participants and course of the main Nuremberg war crimes trial. The Memorium sheds light on the events of these historic trials, their preparation, their course and their impact on the post-war world. With multimedia installations, historical documents and original photographs, the permanent exhibition provides an intensive insight into the events. The voices of contemporary witnesses and the reports of the journalists who accompanied the trials are particularly moving. Rating: worth seeing.

7. Sebaldus Church

The St. Sebald's Church, named after the city's patron saint St. Sebaldus, is the oldest parish church in Nuremberg and one of the most important examples of Gothic church architecture in southern Germany. It was built in the 13th century, initially in the Romanesque style, before being transformed into an impressive Gothic basilica in the course of the 14th century. Its twin towers dominate the silhouette of the old town and make it an unmistakable landmark. The church was rebuilt after suffering severe damage during the Second World War.

Some of the church's highlights can be found on the façade: the Schreyer-Landauer epitaph with finely crafted reliefs on the east choir opposite the town hall was created by the Nuremberg sculptor Adam Kraft as a memorial to the wealthy donors Konrad Schreyer and Matthäus Landauer. The west façade is adorned with the impressive bronze crucifix, designed by Albrecht Dürer. At the south-west corner, you will find the famous World Court Portal with a gruesome depiction of the Last Judgement - an outstanding example of medieval architectural sculpture.

The main attraction of the church is the famous Tomb of St. Sebaldus with a filigree bronze shrine, which was designed by Peter Vischer between 1508 and 1519 and crafted by his sons. This work of art, which contains the relics of St. Sebaldus, is a highlight of the late Gothic period and attracts art lovers from all over the world.

In addition to the tomb of St. Sebaldus, it is worth taking a look at the magnificent stained glass windows, some of which date back to the 14th century and depict biblical scenes in vibrant colors. The late Gothic altars and some remarkable works by the sculptor Veit Stoß bear witness to the artistic wealth of this church.

8. Henkersteg (Hangman's Bridge), Henkershaus (Hangman's House), Water Tower and Weinstadel (Wine Barn)

The ensemble of Henkersteg, Henkerhaus, Wasserturm and Weinstadel is one of the most picturesque corners of Nuremberg's Old Town and makes a wonderful backdrop for a stroll. The Henkersteg, a covered wooden bridge dating back to 1457, connects the Old Town with the Trödelmarktinsel and crosses the Pegnitz. It owes its name to the adjacent executioner's house, where the city's executioner once lived. Today, it houses a newly designed museum that provides insights into Nuremberg's legal and criminal history.

Directly opposite is the Weinstadel (Wine Barn), one of the largest and most beautiful half-timbered buildings in Germany. The building was originally erected in the 15th century as an infirmary for lepers. After they were no longer allowed to stay within the city walls in the 16th century, it served as accommodation for families of craftsmen in need and as a wine warehouse. With its half-timbered façade and picturesque location by the river, the Weinstadel is the star of this popular photo motif. The best view is from the Maxbrücke bridge.

9. Heilig-Geist-Spital (Holy Spirit Hospital)

The Heilig-Geist-Spital is one of the most beautiful and best-known photo motifs in Nuremberg. It was built half on an island in the Pegnitz. The building that spans the Pegnitz is the former infirmary.

Situated directly above the Pegnitz, the Heilig-Geist-Spital is one of the largest medieval hospitals in Germany. The wealthy and pious patrician Konrad Groß founded the hospital in 1339 as a hospital and old people's home for the needy. At the time, it was the largest social institution in medieval Germany. The destitute were cared for here free of charge, provided they were prepared to pray daily for the founder. Those who had money could buy in. Even today, the Heilig-Geist-Spital is still a retirement home reserved for people on low incomes.

The architecture of the Heilig-Geist-Spital impresses with its harmony between functionality and aesthetics. The part of the building that spans the river is particularly characteristic - a unique example of medieval building craftsmanship. Inside is the former hospital church, where the imperial regalia, including the imperial crown and sceptre, were kept from 1424 to 1796.

There are several inner courtyards. The crucifixion courtyard, where the stone table tombs of the founder Konrad Groß and another benefactor, Herdegen Valzner, are located, is particularly worth seeing. Today, the historic walls also house a restaurant where you can enjoy Franconian specialties - a lovely place to soak up the atmosphere of this historic site.

10. St. Lorenz

The St. Lawrence Church is one of the three large churches in Nuremberg and an impressive example of late Gothic architecture. Located in the heart of the Old Town, it dominates the cityscape with its two striking towers and the "Star of St. Lawrence" rose window on the west façade. It was built in 1230 and originally served as the church of the southern parish. With the Reformation, the whole of Nuremberg, including St. Lawrence's Church, became Protestant in 1525. The first Lutheran preacher was Andreas Osiander.

A wealth of works of art and sacred furnishings await you inside the Lorenzkirche. Particularly noteworthy is the famous Angel's Greeting (or English Greeting) by Veit Stoß, a delicately carved wreath made of lime wood, which hovers above the high altar and depicts the Annunciation of Mary. Equally impressive is the Sacrament house by Adam Kraft, a sandstone tabernacle almost 20 meters high with elaborately carved reliefs. In addition to the late Gothic stained glass windows, the many altars with carvings and paintings are also impressive. The oldest work of art in the church is the Beautiful Madonna from around 1280. The works of art survived the Second World War in the art bunker, while the church itself was badly damaged, but was reopened in 1952.

11. New Museum

The Neues Museum - Staatliches Museum für Kunst und Design in Nuremberg is a modern highlight in the historic old town of Nuremberg and offers a fascinating contrast to its medieval surroundings. Opened in 2000, the building impresses from the outside with its curved glass façade, which symbolizes openness and dynamism. Designed by architect Volker Staab, the Neues Museum is an architectural masterpiece that combines contemporary design language with urban space.

The highlight of the equally spectacular interior architecture is a spiral staircase, which is intended to evoke associations with New York's Guggenheim Museum. Unfortunately, I have not yet been able to visit the New Museum from the inside - but I will certainly do so on my next visit to Nuremberg!

Inside, you can expect over 3,000 m²an exciting mix of modern and contemporary art and design. The collection includes works by artists such as Gerhard Richter (with one of the world's largest collections of his works), Neo Rauch and Andy Warhol, as well as outstanding examples of industrial design that document the development of everyday culture. Changing special exhibitions bring fresh perspectives and attract art and design lovers alike.

12. Historic Art Bunker

Although Nuremberg was one of the most devastated German cities during the Second World War, many irreplaceable art treasures survived the war unscathed in the art bunker under the castle hill. Originally used to store beer, the vaults were converted by the National Socialists without the knowledge of the population and offered protection for works by Albrecht Dürer and Veit Stoß, church windows and even parts of the imperial jewels thanks to their ingenious climate control and secure location. But while art and culture were preserved, the city of Nuremberg itself fell victim to Allied bombing raids and was almost completely destroyed, with countless loss of life.

The art bunker thus raises an ambivalent question: While it documents the impressive efforts to save the cultural heritage, it once again shows the cynicism of the Nazis. The protection of the artworks contrasts sharply with the destruction of the city and the suffering of the population - thousands lost their lives in the hail of bombs, hundreds of thousands were left homeless. Furthermore looted art,  often from Jewish property or from the occupied territories.

The art bunker can only be visited as part of a guided tour. I found the tour extremely interesting and entertaining. Bring warm clothes, because it's cold down here even in summer.

13. Weißgerbergasse

With 22 preserved half-timbered houses, Weißgerbergasse is the best-preserved street in Nuremberg's Old Town after the heavy air raids of the Second World War. It is a typical craftsmen's street. White tanners once lived and worked here, producing fine leather to supply the wealthier citizens. Today, the alley exudes a very special charm with its colorful facades, pretty shutters and small details such as carved beams or ornate house signs.Typical of Nuremberg's half-timbered houses. were attic bay windows (mainly elevator bay windows for loads), bay windows on the second floor (Chörlein) and figures of saints on the corners of the houses (the so-called house saints).

Weißgerbergasse not only offers beautiful photo opportunities, but is also an example of how residents of the old town and the city of Nuremberg have worked together to preserve historic buildings and secure them for the future. The half-timbering of these houses was still covered with plaster until the 1970s. Thanks to the "Altstadtfreunde Nürnberg e.V." association and the house owners, most of the houses have been lovingly renovated. The restoration of the half-timbered houses has made Weißgerbergasse one of Nuremberg's biggest tourist attractions. Bars, restaurants and small stores can be found on the first floors of many of the houses.

14. Handwerkerhof (Craftsmen's Yard)

The Handwerkerhof was created in 1971 on the occasion of Albrecht Dürer's 500th birthday as a tourist attraction in the former armory of the Kaiserburg wall. Located directly at the Königstor, opposite the main train station, this charming place offers an insight into traditional Nuremberg craftsmanship and medieval flair - even if it is itself a product of modern urban development.

Artisans showcase their skills in the small workshops and stores: From pewter casting and pottery to glass blowing, you can discover traditional techniques here. In the stores selling handmade jewelry, leather goods and typical Nuremberg gingerbread, you are sure to find a suitable souvenir.

With its half-timbered houses, cobblestones and rustic inns, the Handwerkerhof is reminiscent of old Nuremberg, making it a magnet for tourists from all over the world, who flock here from the train station towards the city center to treat themselves to their first bratwurst. On warm summer evenings, the Handwerkerhof is totally overcrowded, but on a snowy evening in the run-up to Christmas, I found it extremely picturesque.

15. St. John's Cemetery

The St. John's Cemetery in the St. Johannis district, west of Nuremberg's city wall, is one of the most famous cemeteries in Europe and impresses with its special atmosphere, which is characterized by the artistically designed gravestones and the rich tradition of floral decorations. It was consecrated as early as 1395 and became the cemetery of Sebald's Old Town after burials were banned in Nuremberg's city center in 1518 due to the plague,

One of the most famous graves is that of Albrecht Dürer.whose gravestone is decorated with a simple inscription and a floral ornament. The resting place of Veit Stoß, the famous sculptor who created the Angel's Greeting in St. Lawrence Church, can be visited here. A walk through St. John's Cemetery is like a journey back in time to Nuremberg's past, as the gravestones tell stories of the craftsmen, merchants and artists who once shaped the city.

Particularly impressive is the splendour of the flowers tended by the relatives, which transform the cemetery into a sea of color in spring and summer. St. John's Cemetery is a cultural and historical gem that preserves Nuremberg's rich past in a quiet but impressive way.

16. Christmas Market

The Nuremberg Christmas Market is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in the world - known for its rich history, the famous Nuremberg gingerbread and the iconic Christ Child. Since the 17th century, the market has constantly changed, experienced ups and downs, and was revived amidst the rubble after the Second World War. Today, the Nuremberg Christ Child, a young Nuremberg woman chosen by a jury, traditionally opens the market with a festive prologue in the gallery of the Frauenkirche.

The market stretches across the main market square and through almost the entire old town. In addition to the classic Christmas market, there is also the the Market of the Twin Cities, which offers international flair, as well as the Nuremberg Children's Christmas, which is a particular highlight for the little ones. You can find more details about the history and atmosphere of the Christkindlesmarkt in my article about the 30 most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany.

Interesting excursion destinations around Nuremberg

• Franconian Switzerland: This picturesque low mountain range is ideal for hikers, climbers and nature lovers. Visit romantic castles such as Pottenstein Castle, explore the Devil's Cave and enjoy the regional cuisine in one of the many brewery inns. As one of the largest cherry-growing regions in Germany, the region is also transformed into a magical sea of blossom in spring.
• Bamberg: The UNESCO World Heritage city impresses with its historic charm, the Old Town Hall in the middle of the river and the imposing cathedral. A stroll through "Little Venice" or a visit to one of the traditional smoked beer breweries is a must!
• Fürth: Only a few minutes away from Nuremberg, Fürth offers a charming old town with magnificent Wilhelminian-style buildings. Visit the Jewish Museum of Franconia or stroll along Gustavstrasse with its cozy cafés and restaurants.
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber: This medieval gem on the Romantic Road is about an hour's drive from Nuremberg and attracts visitors from all over the world with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and famous city wall. Perfect for a day trip.
• Regensburg: The UNESCO World Heritage city - one of the few German cities that was not destroyed in the Second World War - is just under an hour away from Nuremberg and is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful cities in the country. The Stone Bridge, the cathedral and the historic old town offer impressive architecture and a rich history.
• Altmühl Valley: Idyllic river landscapes, castles and the spectacular Danube gorge near Kelheim make the Altmühltal Nature Park a beautiful vacation region that is perfect for hiking, cycling tours or a boat trip on the Altmühl.
• Ansbach: The charming residential city with its baroque palace, court garden and orangery is just under an hour away from Nuremberg. Take a stroll through the picturesque old town with its beautiful half-timbered houses.

Practical Nuremberg tips

Hotel Recommendations for Nuremberg

Upscale: Karl August - a Neighborhood Hotel* 4-star hotel with terrace in an excellent old town location and yet quiet. Beautiful and large spa area with pool, sauna and fitness center. Modern rooms with exposed concrete. Parking in the directly adjacent parking garage "Parken im Augustinerhof" for hotel guests at special rates.

Comfortable: Art & Business Hotel* - I love this hotel because of the fantastic breakfast, the friendly ambience and the ideal location near the central station. In summer you can have breakfast in the courtyard! Discounted parking in the station garage (you get an exit ticket at the hotel).

Fair: N9 Hotels*- New 3-star hotel in a city center location, close to the train station and the Germanic National Museum - perfect for exploring Nuremberg on foot. Modern and comfortable rooms with soundproofed windows, kettle and fridge, but without air conditioning.

Tips on recommended restaurants and cafés in Nuremberg

Nuremberg offers a diverse selection of restaurants and cafés, but they are often overcrowded, especially at weekends and during the Christmas market season. Reservations are therefore advisable. Here are my recommendations:

Air jumpThis charming café-restaurant in the old town combines modern cuisine with a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for breakfast, a short break with coffee and cake or a relaxed evening with creative dishes. I always felt at home here, even as a solo traveler.

Ca Castlefé BeerLocated right next to the Imperial Castle, this traditional Nuremberg café offers delicious homemade cakes and tarts. The ideal place for a relaxing break after a tour of the castle. Of course, you can also stock up on the finest Nuremberg gingerbread here. The main store is located at Breite Gasse 79.

Wirtshaus Hütt'n: Here, rustic coziness is a top priority. Hearty Franconian dishes and a large selection of beers make the Hütt'n a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike.

Albrecht-Dürer-Stube: Very nice, small, family-run restaurant with typical Franconian cuisine and Dürer prints on the walls. The cozy atmosphere and lovingly prepared dishes make this restaurant a real insider tip.

Restaurant Heilig-Geist-Spital: Franconian specialties in a historic ambience directly on the Pegnitz. Here you can enjoy traditional dishes such as Schäufele or Nuremberg sausages.

Zum Spießgesellen: In this cozy restaurant in Nuremberg's Old Town Hall, the friendly staff serve hearty Franconian cuisine, but also delicious fish dishes - in summer on the very pleasant terrace.

Finca & Bar Celona: A successful blend of Mediterranean flair and relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for tapas, cocktails or a leisurely breakfast. The terrace right on the water is awesome!

Tips on How to Get to Nuremberg

By plane:
Nuremberg has its own airport, which is only around 7 km from the city center. From the airport, you can take the U2 subway line directly to Nuremberg Central Station in around 15 minutes - quick and easy.

Alternatively, you can use the airports Frankfurt/Main (230 km) or Munich, (170 km). Both offer good train connections to Nuremberg. From Frankfurt Airport, the ICE takes you to Nuremberg in around 2.5 hours, from Munich you can be there in around 1 hour and 45 minutes.

By train:
Nuremberg Central Station is located directly on the edge of the Old Town and is a central transportation hub. Nuremberg is well connected to the German long-distance rail network, with numerous direct ICE and IC connections. The train is therefore an excellent choice for short trips or city tours.

By car:
Nuremberg is conveniently located near the highways A3, A6, A9 and A73which makes it easy to get here from all directions. There are numerous parking garages within the city, although they can be expensive, especially in the old town. If possible, park outside and use public transport to explore the city center.

Parking in Nuremberg

As in most large cities, free parking spaces are in short supply in Nuremberg city center. However, there are some options for paid parking as well as parking facilities slightly outside the city center, which are cheaper.

Central parking:
There are numerous parking garages in the old town, but they are quite expensive with daily fees of around €20 to €30. Particularly practical are the Parking garage Hauptmarkt, in the old town, as well as the Parking garage Sterntor near the main train station. If you have booked your hotel in the city center, many hotels offer their own parking facilities, but these are also subject to a charge.

Cheaper parking:
If you want to save a little, we recommend the Park + Ride system in Nuremberg. At several subway stations such as Messe  or Langwasser Süd you can park your car for free or for a small fee and travel comfortably to the city center by public transport. Alternatively, the Parking garage at the Volksfestplatz an affordable daily rate (currently around €5), from where you can reach the old town in just a few minutes by streetcar.

You can find an overview of all parking options and tariffs at the Parking garage service Nuremberg. So you can choose the option that suits you best - central or price-conscious.

Local Transport Tips

Nuremberg's Old Town and many of the most important sights are within easy walking distance. Nevertheless, public transport is worthwhile if you want to travel further distances or visit destinations outside the Old Town. Nuremberg has an excellent network of subway trains, streetcars and buses, which are operated by the VGN (Transport Association of Greater Nuremberg) is operated.

Particularly practical are the DayTickets:

• The DayTicket Solo for a single person costs € 9.10 (valid throughout the city).
• Worthwhile for groups or families DayTicket Pluswhich costs €13.50 for up to 6 people (max. 2 adults and up to 4 children under 18).

A one-way ticket within the city costs €3.20, while a short-distance ticket (up to 4 stops) is available for €1.90.

The subway is particularly efficient if you are traveling from the main station to destinations such as the Nuremberg Airport or the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds want to reach. The streetcar lines are also ideal for a leisurely ride through the city.

Further information on timetables, fares and tickets can be found on the website of the VGN.

If you also want to visit museums, the Nuremberg Cardwhich includes public transportation.

Nuremberg Card

For all those who want to explore Nuremberg intensively, the Nuremberg Card an excellent choice. The card not only offers Free travel on all public transport in tariff zone A (Nuremberg, Fürth and Stein), but also free admission to over 30 museums and sights. These include highlights such as the Imperial Castle, the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, the Albrecht Dürer House and the Germanic National Museum.

The Nuremberg Card costs €33 for adults and €11 for children up to the age of 17. It is valid for two consecutive days and is therefore ideal for a weekend in the city. In addition to the main attractions, the card also allows you to use public transport to travel to more distant destinations such as the zoo or the airport.

The Nuremberg Card is available at tourist information offices, many hotels and online. It's perfect for anyone who doesn't want to worry about tickets and travel passes and wants to save money at the same time. An all-round carefree package for your visit to Nuremberg!

The most important questions about your short trip to Nuremberg